As the Senate prepares to vote on his confirmation, David Keeling's track record at UPS raises questions about his commitment to worker safety amidst rising temperatures.
Trump's OSHA Nominee Faces Scrutiny Over Heat Safety Measures
Trump's OSHA Nominee Faces Scrutiny Over Heat Safety Measures
Concerns Grow About David Keeling's Past with UPS and Possible Conflict of Interest
David Keeling, President Trump's nominee to lead the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is facing scrutiny due to his previous affiliation with UPS, a company that has historically been resistant to implementing necessary measures for protecting its drivers from extreme heat. As one of the most vocal advocates for in-vehicle air conditioning, UPS drivers have long sought solutions to combat heat-related illnesses.
Keeling, who spent nearly four decades at UPS before transitioning to Amazon in 2021, is slated to take over OSHA at a critical juncture when the agency is poised to finalize its first federal regulations aimed at safeguarding nearly 36 million workers from extreme heat. The proposed rules would mandate water and rest breaks for workers in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing when temperatures exceed specific thresholds.
While certain labor organizations, including the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, have expressed support for Keeling's nomination, citing his extensive health and safety expertise, others remain skeptical. Teamsters spokeswoman Kara Deniz emphasized the importance of having someone with real-world experience in the role. In contrast, labor advocates and former UPS drivers have voiced their concerns regarding Keeling's past inaction, noting that their requests for air conditioning in delivery vehicles were consistently dismissed by the company.
Critics argue that this lack of action under Keeling’s tenure at UPS raises apparent contradictions as OSHA prepares to introduce regulations designed to improve worker safety. As the Senate committee prepares to vote on Keeling's confirmation, the debate over his nomination reflects broader tensions surrounding worker health and safety standards amidst an era of increasing heat waves and climate change.
Keeling, who spent nearly four decades at UPS before transitioning to Amazon in 2021, is slated to take over OSHA at a critical juncture when the agency is poised to finalize its first federal regulations aimed at safeguarding nearly 36 million workers from extreme heat. The proposed rules would mandate water and rest breaks for workers in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing when temperatures exceed specific thresholds.
While certain labor organizations, including the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, have expressed support for Keeling's nomination, citing his extensive health and safety expertise, others remain skeptical. Teamsters spokeswoman Kara Deniz emphasized the importance of having someone with real-world experience in the role. In contrast, labor advocates and former UPS drivers have voiced their concerns regarding Keeling's past inaction, noting that their requests for air conditioning in delivery vehicles were consistently dismissed by the company.
Critics argue that this lack of action under Keeling’s tenure at UPS raises apparent contradictions as OSHA prepares to introduce regulations designed to improve worker safety. As the Senate committee prepares to vote on Keeling's confirmation, the debate over his nomination reflects broader tensions surrounding worker health and safety standards amidst an era of increasing heat waves and climate change.
